Saku Hot-Air Balloon Festival 2026

• May 3, 2026 at 6:49 am
  Event date:
• May 5, 2026 at 6:49 am
  Event end:

The 2026 Saku Hot-Air Balloon Festival promises to be a thrilling event with a variety of exciting activities, competitions, and family-friendly experiences. Here’s everything you need to know about this spectacular event!

Event Overview:

• Tournament Name: 2026 Hot Air Balloon Honda Grand Prix Round 1 / Shinsaku City 21th Anniversary Saku Balloon Festival 2026
• Dates:
  • May 3rd (Saturday/Holiday)
  • May 4th (Sunday/Holiday)
  • May 5th (Monday/Holiday)
  • May 2nd (Friday): Official practice day
• Location: Chikuma River Sports Exchange Square, 505-1 Naruse, Saku City, Nagano Prefecture
• Organizer: Saku Balloon Festival Organizing Committee

Festival Concept:

The festival is centered around “Inspiring Children!” and is designed to introduce them to the beauty of nature and the wonder of hot air balloons. It’s a family-oriented event that aims to inspire the younger generation while fostering a community spirit. The festival also strives to be accessible to people with disabilities, ensuring everyone can enjoy the festivities.

Event Highlights:

• Hot Air Balloon Competitions: Top hot air balloon pilots from across the nation will compete over three days in this thrilling competition.
• Sky Sports:
  • Hot air balloon competition flights
  • Hot air balloon tethering experience
  • Hot air balloon classes
• Kids Day (May 3rd):
  • Free hot air balloon tethering for elementary school students and younger
  • Children’s sketching competition (starting around 8:00 AM)
  • Tethered balloon experience
• Heartful Day (May 4th):
  • Free tethering experience for those with a disability certificate
  • Heartful Booth
  • Special stage events
• Stage Events (May 3rd & 4th):
  • Dance performances by local nursery school children and junior high school students
  • Special guest performances commemorating the 21th anniversary of Shinsaku City
• Experience Events:
  • Woodworking classes, foot darts, rag weaving, body painting, and more for all ages.
• Food Stalls:
  • Enjoy a variety of food, including fried chicken, kebabs, crepes, and food trucks offering tasty treats.
• Couple Flight (May 3rd):
  • One lucky couple will be invited to experience a free flight in a hot air balloon.
• Balloon Illusion (May 4th):
  • A stunning display of colorful hot air balloons illuminated by their burners, lighting up the night sky in a fantastic way to commemorate the 21th anniversary of Shinsaku City.

Ticket Price: Free

We Recommend These Must-Try Moments

1. 1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake in Nagano
Witness the famous snow monkeys bathing in hot springs at Jigokudani.
Explore the historic Zenko-ji Temple and sample local sake.
A cultural and natural escape into the heart of Nagano.

2. Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route Day Tour from Nagano
Travel the breathtaking Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route with stunning mountain views.
Marvel at dramatic landscapes, snow walls, and scenic cable car rides.
A must-do experience for nature lovers and photographers.

3. Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route & Kamikochi 2-Day Trip from Nagoya
Explore the majestic Alpine Route and stay overnight in a serene setting.
Visit Kamikochi for tranquil nature walks and mountain views.
Perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful, immersive nature retreat.

4. Nagano: Kamikochi Hiking Day Trip (Including 3.5 hours of free time)
Enjoy a scenic day hike in Kamikochi, one of Japan’s top nature spots.
Relax by the Azusa River or explore forest trails at your own pace.
Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking to unplug in the Japanese Alps.

5. SKY BLUE Paragliding Experience in Nagano from Hakuba
Soar above Hakuba’s alpine landscape with a thrilling paragliding adventure.
No experience needed—enjoy tandem flights with professional instructors.
An unforgettable way to see Nagano from a whole new perspective.

Additional Information:

• Number of Participating Teams: 35 teams (tentative) + 6 official balloons
• Expected Attendance: Approximately 350,000 people
• Contact Information:
  • Saku Balloon Festival Organizing Committee:
    • Secretariat: Saku City Hall Tourism Division
    • Phone: 0267-62-3285
    • Fax: 0267-62-2269
    • Official Website
  • Hot Air Balloon Organization (AirB):
    • Phone: 042-394-9078
    • Fax: 042-394-9540
    • AirB Website

This free and fun-filled event is perfect for families, balloon enthusiasts, and anyone looking to enjoy an inspiring day out. Be sure to mark your calendars and experience the magic of hot air balloons in beautiful Saku City!

Location